Many people in the community are settling into the reality of staying at home except to care for basic needs. Gov. Mike Parson last week issued a stay-at-home order for all Missourians, and directed essential stores to limit the people inside to slow the spread of COVID-19.

There were 13 verified cases of COVID-19 in Warren County as of Wednesday morning, according to the county health department.

During this time, the Warren County Commission is asking residents to stay positive and focus on what they can do to help their neighbors, while preventing the spread of the disease.

“We’ve got to support one another. These are trying times for all of us,” said Presiding Commissioner Joe Gildehaus. “Help your neighbors. Some of the elderly neighbors who can’t get out, maybe give them a call to check on them, or get them their gallon of milk.”

Gildehaus also asked residents to continue supporting local businesses, such as restaurants that are still providing vital food service.

“If we follow (health) guidelines, we’ll get through this, hopefully sooner, and we will beat this,” Gildehaus said.

In response to some businesses closing or laying off workers during the pandemic, Gildehaus said the county is coordinating with city governments and local groups to locate and share information about aid for unemployment or struggling businesses.

The city of Warrenton has been one of the leaders in this regard, sending email blasts to local businesses about loans and temporary assistance recently approved by the federal government.

“Even though city hall is closed, we still have staff answering the phone and directing calls to ensure that residents are receiving necessary services,” said Warrenton City Administrator Terri Thorn. “Law enforcement continues their normal routine, with the addition of practicing as much safety precautions as are possible.”

Warrenton aldermen have adopted video conference meetings that are viewable online, Thorn added.

Gildehaus said the county does not plan to enact any personal or business restrictions beyond what has been issued by Gov. Parson and President Donald Trump.

Warren County also does not require workers to carry paperwork stating that they’re essential.

Southern District Commissioner Hubie Kluesner said people shouldn’t live in absolute fear of COVID-19, but should still take all reasonable precautions against it. Specifically, people need to recognize that they might be carrying the virus without symptoms, and should avoid close contact with others, he said.

Commissioners also asked the public to seek official sources of information about COVID-19, and not spread unverified rumors on social media.

Wright City Administrator Jim Schuchmann said his staff are carrying on operations as normally as they can. Wright City’s offices are also closed, but staff continue to be available to conduct business over the phone.

“We want to encourage everyone to hang in there. Continue to practice the safe standards,” Schuchmann said. “I’m confident we will get through this and it will be a better day.”